Exparel Use in Adductor Canal Block After Total Knee Arthroplasty

Adductor Canal Blocks Using Exparel for Pain Control After Total Knee Arthroplasty

Exparel has been shown to have better pain control compared to previously used infiltration agents, including bupivacaine, while having a minor side effect profile. The purpose of this study is to explore the effectiveness of Exparel (liposomal bupivacaine) in Adductor Canal Blocks for peri-operative pain control following a total knee arthroplasty (TKA) procedure.

The effectiveness of an Exparel Block (Bupivacaine Liposomal Injectable Suspension) for post-operative pain control has been well studied with encouraging results. At the investigators' institution, Exparel has been approved as a safe and effective option for use in shoulder surgeries and have had encouraging results in adductor canal use for pain control in patients undergoing TKA. Exparel has been shown to have better pain control compared to previously used infiltration agents, including bupivacaine, while having a minor side effect profile. The purpose of this study is to explore the effectiveness of Exparel (liposomal bupivacaine) in Adductor Canal Blocks (ACB) for peri-operative pain control following a total knee arthroplasty (TKA) procedure. Specifically, the investigators look to see if Exparel ACB reduces opioid requirement use post-operatively, reduces pain scores post-operatively, provides earlier mobilization, and decreases length of hospital stay.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients were eligible for inclusion if they were undergoing unilateral primary TKA for a diagnosis of knee osteoarthritis and were not undergoing any additional concomitant procedures were.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients were not eligible for our study if they were undergoing revision TKA, if they were undergoing bilateral TKA or concomitant procedures, or if they had an active infection.